First Presbyterian Church

The Presbyterian Church has been part of Ely’s story almost as long as Ely itself. Thanks to the missionary efforts of a tenacious group of local women, the congregation officially organized in 1888, becoming the first church back when Ely was still a rough mining town filled with boarding houses, muddy streets, and people arriving from all over the world looking for work and a new beginning. The church’s earliest meetings were held in the dining room of the Chandler Hotel and later in the schoolhouse and other borrowed community spaces including a local saloon where kegs and boards served as makeshift pews. 

 After incorporating, the congregation quickly took root. In the words of a later historical summary, “the wilderness gave birth to the church.” Ministers traveled long distances by train, wagon, and on foot to serve the growing community. Early church members included engineers, shopkeepers, teachers, and immigrant families who were building lives in the Northwoods while also building a community of faith and care for one another. The first building was erected in 1889 and served the community for 34 years before being moved to the White’s addition of Ely to make way for our current Sanctuary. 

The present brick building was designed in 1924 by engineers in the administrative offices of the Oliver Iron Mining Company in Virginia.  The corner stone was laid on August 24th, 1924 and the first worship service was held in the space on December 19th. The new facility offered more space for worship, fellowship, and social events. As one of the few public gathering places, the Presbyterian Church quickly became more than just a place for worship. It often served as a cultural center, hosting choirs, musicians, operas, speakers, public discussions, and community meals. The congregation also played an important role supporting local families through world wars, economic downturns, mining busts, and changing seasons of life in the Boundary Waters region.

 Over the years, the building evolved alongside the community. Additions and renovations expanded classrooms, fellowship space, and worship areas as the congregation grew. In 1953 the sanctuary was remodeled, lightening up the woodwork and furnishings.  The pews were replaced in 1958 and the nine classrooms (three upstairs and six down), nursery, and Boy Scout room were remodeled in 1960. In 1992, the elevator and kitchenette were added and the kitchen downstairs was remodeled.  The stained glass sanctuary windows were replaced with new ones designed by David Hetland in 2001 depicting the seasons of renewal in Ely, as well as the city skyline and local flora and fauna. The last building project was the renovation of the chancel area to increase accessibility, and add flexibility as a community space.  

 The church’s story has always been tied closely to the character of Ely itself: resilient, hardworking, welcoming, and deeply shaped by the wilderness that surrounds it. Through long winters, changing industries, and generations of families, this congregation has remained a place where people gather for worship, friendship, service, and hope.

Today, Ely Presbyterian Church continues that tradition. The congregation remains active in community partnerships, outreach ministries, music, and shared worship with neighboring churches. Visitors are always welcome inside this historic building, where more than a century of Ely’s stories, prayers, celebrations, and ordinary moments of community life still echo through the sanctuary.

Have a question or a suggestion? Or Just Come and Visit!